Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the classic comfort of creamy pasta with the wholesome goodness of chicken and broccoli. It’s simple to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and packs a delicious garlic punch. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of penne and chicken, making every bite satisfying and rich without being overly heavy.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 2 cups penne pasta
• 1.5 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
5. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the penne pasta.
6. Pour in your preferred creamy garlic sauce (recipe below or use store-bought Alfredo or cream sauce). Stir to coat everything evenly and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2 to 3 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Use other pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni for a different texture.
• Substitute broccoli with spinach, asparagus, or zucchini for variety.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Use heavy cream and fresh garlic to make your own garlic cream sauce from scratch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just steam or thaw it before adding to the dish.

What kind of creamy garlic sauce can I use?

You can use a store-bought Alfredo sauce, make a simple cream sauce with garlic, butter, cream, and parmesan, or even a garlic cream cheese blend.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more richness and stay tender but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, since penne pasta contains gluten. Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead and reheat with sauce before serving for convenience.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream substitutes and vegan cheese alternatives to keep it creamy.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, grated parmesan or mozzarella adds extra flavor and creaminess.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish well.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook the chicken and slice it evenly to ensure quick, uniform cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein alternative.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken & Penne is a versatile and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and pasta in a luscious garlic cream sauce. It’s perfect for quick dinners or cozy meals, with plenty of room for customization to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.

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